Macon County authorities are still searching for an unknown man who reportedly sexually assaulted a female at her Rose Creek Cove Road home on the evening of August 1.

According to Macon County Sheriff Robert Holland there has been an overwhelming response from the community concerning the incident. “There has been a tremendous response from residents and that is what it is going to take to catch this individual,” he said on Monday. “Officers are continuing to get information and are following up with the investigation, which is ongoing.”

At approximately 6:10 p.m., authorities responded to a 9-1-1 call referencing a breaking and entering and sexual assault that occurred just an hour or so before. According to reports, the victim did not know the suspect, nor did she know his mode of transportation.

Immediately after the incident was reported, an investigation began and two investigators were assigned to the case that night, at which time they began processing the crime scene and interviewing witnesses. “She was physically injured in the attack,” said Holland.

The Sheriff's Office is requesting assistance from any person that observed any unusual or suspicious activity or individuals in the north Macon area, specifically near Highway 28 Bryson City Rd., Bennett Rd. and Rose Creek Rd., on Monday or at any other recent time.

The suspect is described as being a white male, approximately 6 feet tall with short dark brown hair, no facial hair and blue or green eyes. He has a skinny to medium sized frame and a noticeable tan. He was reported to be wearing blue jean shorts, a black t-shirt with a pocket and flip flops at the time of the assault. It is possible that he has scratch marks on his body.

Investigators canvassed the neighbors in the Rose Creek area and continue to pursue the information they gathered. Deputies from the Patrol Unit set up road blocks to speak with drivers and residents in the area Tuesday and Wednesday and have passed on additional information to the Investigators. Investigators, who are being assisted by the Asheville Police Department, met on Thursday with the victim and a forensic artist to prepare a sketch of the suspect.

“Although this appears to be an isolated incident, I encourage all residents to take normal security measures and to be aware of their surroundings to ensure their safety,” said Holland. “I consider this incident to be our top priority and have instructed all of the deputies involved to treat this investigation as their highest priority. This investigation will continue and I encourage anyone with any information to contact my Office or Crime Stoppers. I would also like thank the Asheville Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office for their assistance.”

“I consider this incident to be our top priority and have instructed all of the deputies involved to treat this investigation as their highest priority.” – Sheriff Robbie Holland